Forming Disciples for Life Catholic education in the Diocese of Colorado Springs

By Sheila Whalen and Ali Paglia-Almquist

COLORADO SPRINGS. Catholic education in the Diocese of Colorado Springs is more than a school choice, it is an invitation into a way of life rooted in faith, excellence, and purpose. Centered in the person of Jesus Christ, our Catholic schools exist to form not only strong students, but strong disciples, compassionate leaders, and faithful citizens prepared to serve both Church and society. From the earliest years, students are invited into a journey that begins in wonder and leads to wisdom.

St. Thomas Aquinas described wisdom as “a memory of the past, an understanding of the present, and foresight in regard to the future.” Guided by this vision, Catholic education is deeply rooted in tradition while attentively preparing students for the world they will inherit. Catholic schools develop habits of mind that help students see all things in relation to one another and make true and accurate judgments about the world. Within a curriculum shaped by a Catholic worldview, students learn to pursue truth, recognize beauty, and choose the good. Wonder is cultivated through curiosity and awe at God’s creation, and wisdom is formed through disciplined study, reflection, and prayer.

At the heart of Catholic education is the formation of the whole person. Through daily prayer, participation in the sacraments, service to others, and a curriculum grounded in faith, students grow in wisdom, compassion, discipline, and moral courage. They learn to see the world through a Catholic lens, to recognize the dignity of every human person, and to respond to others with empathy and respect. Parents choose Catholic education because they desire for their children a strong moral compass, a deep sense of right and wrong, and the confidence to make good decisions in an increasingly complex world.

Academic excellence remains a defining strength of Catholic education in the Diocese of Colorado Springs. Families are drawn to schools that combine rigorous instruction with high expectations and personalized support. Our schools are known for strong academic outcomes, disciplined learning environments, and a culture that values hard work and perseverance. Students are challenged to think critically, communicate effectively, collaborate with others, and apply their knowledge creatively. Yet achievement is never pursued at the expense of faith or character. Instead, academic success becomes part of a larger mission to form thoughtful, ethical, and engaged citizens.

Families also choose Catholic education because of the values it instills. In our schools, virtues such as honesty, responsibility, kindness, humility, and service are not simply taught — they are lived. Students are encouraged to serve those in need, to stand up for what is right, and to recognize their responsibility to the common good. Service learning, outreach projects, and parish partnerships help students understand that education is not only about personal success, but about making a difference in the lives of others.

Our Catholic schools are vibrant faith communities where learning thrives in an atmosphere of trust, belonging, and shared purpose. Students, families, teachers, clergy, and staff journey together, forming relationships that extend beyond the classroom and often last a lifetime. Parents choose Catholic schools because they want their children to grow in a community that supports families, strengthens marriages, and reinforces the values taught at home. Teachers are not only excellent educators but faithful witnesses who model compassion, integrity, and joyful discipleship.

The impact of Catholic education extends far beyond graduation. Alumni consistently demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership skills, and a commitment to service and faith. They are well prepared for college and careers, but even more importantly, they are prepared for life equipped with confidence, resilience, and a clear sense of identity rooted in Christ.

Guided by faith and inspired by the strategic vision of Illuminating Our Path, the Diocese of Colorado Springs continues to strengthen collaboration among schools, parishes, and diocesan leadership to ensure a vibrant PreK–12 system that is innovative, accountable, and sustainable.  Through responsible stewardship, generous parish support, tuition assistance, and robust advancement efforts, we strive to keep Catholic education within reach while maintaining the highest standards of excellence. Our commitment to growth includes welcoming new families, expanding outreach, strengthening enrollment, and investing in facilities, faculty, and programs that support outstanding learning environments.

For families seeking more than a school, for donors seeking lasting impact, and for communities seeking hope, Catholic education offers something truly extraordinary: an education that shapes not only successful students, but faithful disciples and courageous leaders who will help transform the world.

(Sheila Whalen is Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Colorado Springs. Ali Paglia-Almquist is the Marketing and Enrollment Coordinator for the Office of Catholic Schools.)